2021 NFL Draft: Early draft needs for the Carolina Panthers
By Kyle Edmond
Carolina Panthers 2021 NFL Draft Needs: Quarterback
Many would say that the quarterback position is the Panthers’ top need, but I would argue they are more in need of offensive line than a quarterback. The reason, Teddy Bridgewater.
Some people forget the success that Bridgewater has had in his career. Before his injury, he was widely regarded as the franchise quarterback that Minnesota had been looking for. Even after his injury, he stepped up when the Saints needed it last season, thriving in the role.
As a starter in the NFL Bridgewater holds a 22-12 record, including going 11-5 with the Vikings in 2015 and being a Pro Bowl selection. Now in an offense that fits his play style, Bridgewater might be the answer the Panthers are looking for under center.
There’s a lot of question marks around Bridgewater and if he can not only play at a high level consistently again but also stay healthy, which is why quarterback has been an early talking point for the Carolina Panthers in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Luckily, if Bridgewater doesn’t meet expectations, that should mean the team will be in prime position to take one of the top quarterbacks of the draft class, and there are multiple. If he does meet expectations, then this need is irrelevant and the Panthers can look at other positions to address.